Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has said he would like to see Rangers back in the Scottish Premier League next season.

With Rangers having to drop down to the Third Division after reforming as a newco, Celtic look set to cruise to the title for the second season in succession, with the Bhoys 15 points clear in the SPL despite losing 3-2 at Ross County on Saturday.

Mulgrew feels Celtic may have let their guard down a little in the absence of their Old Firm rivals.

"It is hard to say," he said. "There is not as much pressure on you but I am not using that as an excuse. The players know we weren't good enough against Ross County on Saturday and the performance was not acceptable.

"We should have gone on and won that game after being 2-0 up but we never so we have to look at that and hopefully will be ready when the next game comes. We just know we have to do better.

"At a team like Celtic there should never be a lack of motivation. The fans demand and the club demands that we win every match, so it's not a lack of motivation - it's just that we have to do better. It is simply that."

Mulgrew says it has been a "good season" for the club, with Celtic's progress to the last-16 in the Champions League particularly noteworthy, but he thinks having regular clashes to the Gers would be of benefit.

Asked if he would welcome Rangers back into the top flight, he replied: "If it was my choice? Probably, yes.

"I don't want to get involved in what is going on that side of things. I am just concentrating on things at Celtic and hopefully things will work out for the best."